Developing Accounting Knowledge in a Sustainable Local Agribusiness: Akuafarm in Kundasang, Sabah, Malaysia

This paper explores the integration of accounting knowledge in the innovative context of aquaponics agribusiness, focusing on Akuafarm in Kundasang, Sabah, Malaysia. Aquaponics, a sustainable farming system that combines aquaculture and hydroponics, offers resource efficiency and environmental benefits by creating a closed-loop ecosystem where fish and plants support each other. Despite its potential, Akuafarm faces challenges in financial management, including inadequate cost tracking and unstructured accounting practices, which hinder its long-term sustainability. A community service programme facilitated by Universitas Pakuan and Universiti Malaysia Sabah was conducted to address these issues. Held at Akuafarm's premises, the programme emphasised on aligning accounting practices with the demands of aquaponics operations. Key focus areas included distinguishing fixed and variable costs, such as fish feed and equipment maintenance, and implementing a systematic method for recording income and expenses. Revenue streams, including vegetable sales and agritourism, were categorised to improve financial monitoring, while operational costs such as water use and system maintenance were tracked for better resource allocation.